How to Easily Clean Silver Jewelry

How to Easily Clean Silver Jewelry<br /><br />Silver jewelry is beautiful and shiny when you first buy it, its durable and looks great with everything. It will however tarnish easily if left exposed to air and water. The silver rings I wear everyday will become tarnished but there are easy ways to keep them clean. There are several methods to clean tarnished silver jewelry, these are just a few.<br /><br />Have a jeweler clean them.<br /><br />Its easy enough to drop off your jewelry at a jewelry store and have them cleaned for you.<br /><br />I have seen through trial and error that any toothpaste that has baking soda in it, works best. I have used the gel toothpastes as well and they dont work as well.<br /><br />The Tin Foil and Salt Method<br /><br />I recently saw a website called How To Clean Stuff that had this great recipe, Fill the jar or bowl about half full with hot water.<br /><br />1. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the jar or a couple of tablespoons of salt to the bowl and mix to dissolve.<br /><br />2. Add a few strips of aluminum foil to the jar or cover the bottom of the bowl with a sheet of aluminum foil.<br /><br />3. Now simply drop your silver jewelry in the water.<br /><br />4. You can shake it around in the jar or swish it around in the bowl. The aluminum with the salt acts as a magnet, pulling the tarnish off of the silver.<br /><br />5. Allow the jewelry to set in the saltwater/aluminum foil mixture for a few minutes.<br /><br />6. Remove and rinse under running water.<br /><br />7. Repeat as needed until the tarnish is removed.<br /><br />8. Dry with a soft towel.<br /><br />I tried this method for a few pieces of my silver jewelry that was extremely tarnished and it worked within seconds for my sterling silver bracelet 2 pairs of sterling silver earrings. You have to be very careful about how you use the liquid Tarn x because if you dont follow the directions exactly, your silver might turn yellow and while its hard to polish it back to its original silver color it can be done. You are only supposed to let the Tarn x liquid sit on the silver for 3 seconds and then wash it off immediately under cold running water. If you dont wash the tarn x off immediately after you apply it, your silver could turn yellow.<br /><br />To get the yellow off you have to mix in a small bowl, half Tarn x and half warm water with 2 drops of dish washing liquid. Wash the jewelry with this mixture and rinse immediately in cold water. This should get rid of the ugly yellow color that the Tarn x caused.<br /><br />Milk Based Method<br /><br />Published by Mary Kirkland<br /><br />Mary is originally from Redondo Beach, California and now lives in Las Vegas, Nevada with her husband and daughter. Mary has had extensive experience with small animal care as well as rescuing and re homing. View profile

How to Easily Clean Silver Jewelry

How to Easily Clean Silver Jewelry<br /><br />Silver jewelry is beautiful and shiny when you first buy it, its durable and looks great with everything. It will however tarnish easily if left exposed to air and water. The silver rings I wear everyday will become tarnished but there are easy ways to keep them clean. There are several methods to clean tarnished silver jewelry, these are just a few.<br /><br />Have a jeweler clean them.<br /><br />Its easy enough to drop off your jewelry at a jewelry store and have them cleaned for you.<br /><br />I have seen through trial and error that any toothpaste that has baking soda in it, works best. I have used the gel toothpastes as well and they dont work as well.<br /><br />The Tin Foil and Salt Method<br /><br />I recently saw a website called How To Clean Stuff that had this great recipe, Fill the jar or bowl about half full with hot water.<br /><br />1. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the jar or a couple of tablespoons of salt to the bowl and mix to dissolve.<br /><br />2. Add a few strips of aluminum foil to the jar or cover the bottom of the bowl with a sheet of aluminum foil.<br /><br />3. Now simply drop your silver jewelry in the water.<br /><br />4. You can shake it around in the jar or swish it around in the bowl. The aluminum with the salt acts as a magnet, pulling the tarnish off of the silver.<br /><br />5. Allow the jewelry to set in the saltwater/aluminum foil mixture for a few minutes.<br /><br />6. Remove and rinse under running water.<br /><br />7. Repeat as needed until the tarnish is removed.<br /><br />8. Dry with a soft towel.<br /><br />I tried this method for a few pieces of my silver jewelry that was extremely tarnished and it worked within seconds for my sterling silver bracelet 2 pairs of sterling silver earrings. You have to be very careful about how you use the liquid Tarn x because if you dont follow the directions exactly, your silver might turn yellow and while its hard to polish it back to its original silver color it can be done. You are only supposed to let the Tarn x liquid sit on the silver for 3 seconds and then wash it off immediately under cold running water. If you dont wash the tarn x off immediately after you apply it, your silver could turn yellow.<br /><br />To get the yellow off you have to mix in a small bowl, half Tarn x and half warm water with 2 drops of dish washing liquid. Wash the jewelry with this mixture and rinse immediately in cold water. This should get rid of the ugly yellow color that the Tarn x caused.<br /><br />Milk Based Method<br /><br />Published by Mary Kirkland<br /><br />Mary is originally from Redondo Beach, California and now lives in Las Vegas, Nevada with her husband and daughter. Mary has had extensive experience with small animal care as well as rescuing and re homing. View profile

How to Choose Aquamarine

How to Choose Aquamarine<br /><br />The beautiful and prized aquamarine gemstone takes its name from the Latin term meaning water of the sea. Characterized by a pale blue or turquoise color that resembles ocean waters on a sunny day, aquamarine is mined in Russia, Sri Lanka and Brazil and has even been discovered in the United States in Colorado and Wyoming.<br /><br />In addition to symbolizing the best gift a couple can receive on their 19th wedding anniversary, the aquamarine is also sought after as the birthstone for those born during the month of March. There is superstition and lore associated with aquamarine, which is honored as the favorite of the sea god Neptune. Sailors often wore this gem when on the high seas, as a protection against storms and other nautical dangers.<br /><br />A member of the beryl family of minerals, aquamarine has an extremely hard surface which makes it a great gem to use in jewelry ranging from rings and pendants to bracelets. Many favor giving a gift of aquamarine to a loved one, particularly a spouse or romantic partner, because of its association with safety and security.<br /><br />When shopping for an aquamarine, ask your jeweler if the stone has been chemically treated or altered in some way using irradiation, heat or dyes; these procedures may dramatically alter the value of the stone. Although dark blue aquamarine stones are the most sought after and expensive, many buyers prefer to select their aquamarine based on personal color preferences, as these gems can range in color from light turquoise blue to blue green. Stones which exhibit a green tint are the least desirable and the least expensive.<br /><br />Check the stone under consideration for any flaws or inclusions, which may not be visible to the naked eye due to the fact that most aquamarine gems exhibit a pale color which can mask imperfections. The cut of an aquamarine is certainly a factor in determining its value. A perfectly cut stone features facets that are even and symmetrical, allowing the brilliance of the stones color to really shine through. No matter in which direction you turn a perfectly cut aquamarine or from what angle it is viewed, there should be a colorful sparkle evident, the mark of a valuable stone.<br /><br />Color and clarity are the most important characteristics by which to judge an aquamarine, followed by size. If you discover a very large aquamarine of more than 10 carats with intense blue color, you have discovered a very rare find, as larger stones are not as available and the color of larger stones tend to be pale rather than intense.

How to Choose Aquamarine

How to Choose Aquamarine<br /><br />The beautiful and prized aquamarine gemstone takes its name from the Latin term meaning water of the sea. Characterized by a pale blue or turquoise color that resembles ocean waters on a sunny day, aquamarine is mined in Russia, Sri Lanka and Brazil and has even been discovered in the United States in Colorado and Wyoming.<br /><br />In addition to symbolizing the best gift a couple can receive on their 19th wedding anniversary, the aquamarine is also sought after as the birthstone for those born during the month of March. There is superstition and lore associated with aquamarine, which is honored as the favorite of the sea god Neptune. Sailors often wore this gem when on the high seas, as a protection against storms and other nautical dangers.<br /><br />A member of the beryl family of minerals, aquamarine has an extremely hard surface which makes it a great gem to use in jewelry ranging from rings and pendants to bracelets. Many favor giving a gift of aquamarine to a loved one, particularly a spouse or romantic partner, because of its association with safety and security.<br /><br />When shopping for an aquamarine, ask your jeweler if the stone has been chemically treated or altered in some way using irradiation, heat or dyes; these procedures may dramatically alter the value of the stone. Although dark blue aquamarine stones are the most sought after and expensive, many buyers prefer to select their aquamarine based on personal color preferences, as these gems can range in color from light turquoise blue to blue green. Stones which exhibit a green tint are the least desirable and the least expensive.<br /><br />Check the stone under consideration for any flaws or inclusions, which may not be visible to the naked eye due to the fact that most aquamarine gems exhibit a pale color which can mask imperfections. The cut of an aquamarine is certainly a factor in determining its value. A perfectly cut stone features facets that are even and symmetrical, allowing the brilliance of the stones color to really shine through. No matter in which direction you turn a perfectly cut aquamarine or from what angle it is viewed, there should be a colorful sparkle evident, the mark of a valuable stone.<br /><br />Color and clarity are the most important characteristics by which to judge an aquamarine, followed by size. If you discover a very large aquamarine of more than 10 carats with intense blue color, you have discovered a very rare find, as larger stones are not as available and the color of larger stones tend to be pale rather than intense.

How to Choose Aquamarine

How to Choose Aquamarine<br /><br />The beautiful and prized aquamarine gemstone takes its name from the Latin term meaning water of the sea. Characterized by a pale blue or turquoise color that resembles ocean waters on a sunny day, aquamarine is mined in Russia, Sri Lanka and Brazil and has even been discovered in the United States in Colorado and Wyoming.<br /><br />In addition to symbolizing the best gift a couple can receive on their 19th wedding anniversary, the aquamarine is also sought after as the birthstone for those born during the month of March. There is superstition and lore associated with aquamarine, which is honored as the favorite of the sea god Neptune. Sailors often wore this gem when on the high seas, as a protection against storms and other nautical dangers.<br /><br />A member of the beryl family of minerals, aquamarine has an extremely hard surface which makes it a great gem to use in jewelry ranging from rings and pendants to bracelets. Many favor giving a gift of aquamarine to a loved one, particularly a spouse or romantic partner, because of its association with safety and security.<br /><br />When shopping for an aquamarine, ask your jeweler if the stone has been chemically treated or altered in some way using irradiation, heat or dyes; these procedures may dramatically alter the value of the stone. Although dark blue aquamarine stones are the most sought after and expensive, many buyers prefer to select their aquamarine based on personal color preferences, as these gems can range in color from light turquoise blue to blue green. Stones which exhibit a green tint are the least desirable and the least expensive.<br /><br />Check the stone under consideration for any flaws or inclusions, which may not be visible to the naked eye due to the fact that most aquamarine gems exhibit a pale color which can mask imperfections. The cut of an aquamarine is certainly a factor in determining its value. A perfectly cut stone features facets that are even and symmetrical, allowing the brilliance of the stones color to really shine through. No matter in which direction you turn a perfectly cut aquamarine or from what angle it is viewed, there should be a colorful sparkle evident, the mark of a valuable stone.<br /><br />Color and clarity are the most important characteristics by which to judge an aquamarine, followed by size. If you discover a very large aquamarine of more than 10 carats with intense blue color, you have discovered a very rare find, as larger stones are not as available and the color of larger stones tend to be pale rather than intense.

How to Choose Aquamarine

How to Choose Aquamarine<br /><br />The beautiful and prized aquamarine gemstone takes its name from the Latin term meaning water of the sea. Characterized by a pale blue or turquoise color that resembles ocean waters on a sunny day, aquamarine is mined in Russia, Sri Lanka and Brazil and has even been discovered in the United States in Colorado and Wyoming.<br /><br />In addition to symbolizing the best gift a couple can receive on their 19th wedding anniversary, the aquamarine is also sought after as the birthstone for those born during the month of March. There is superstition and lore associated with aquamarine, which is honored as the favorite of the sea god Neptune. Sailors often wore this gem when on the high seas, as a protection against storms and other nautical dangers.<br /><br />A member of the beryl family of minerals, aquamarine has an extremely hard surface which makes it a great gem to use in jewelry ranging from rings and pendants to bracelets. Many favor giving a gift of aquamarine to a loved one, particularly a spouse or romantic partner, because of its association with safety and security.<br /><br />When shopping for an aquamarine, ask your jeweler if the stone has been chemically treated or altered in some way using irradiation, heat or dyes; these procedures may dramatically alter the value of the stone. Although dark blue aquamarine stones are the most sought after and expensive, many buyers prefer to select their aquamarine based on personal color preferences, as these gems can range in color from light turquoise blue to blue green. Stones which exhibit a green tint are the least desirable and the least expensive.<br /><br />Check the stone under consideration for any flaws or inclusions, which may not be visible to the naked eye due to the fact that most aquamarine gems exhibit a pale color which can mask imperfections. The cut of an aquamarine is certainly a factor in determining its value. A perfectly cut stone features facets that are even and symmetrical, allowing the brilliance of the stones color to really shine through. No matter in which direction you turn a perfectly cut aquamarine or from what angle it is viewed, there should be a colorful sparkle evident, the mark of a valuable stone.<br /><br />Color and clarity are the most important characteristics by which to judge an aquamarine, followed by size. If you discover a very large aquamarine of more than 10 carats with intense blue color, you have discovered a very rare find, as larger stones are not as available and the color of larger stones tend to be pale rather than intense.

How To Buy Costume Jewelry in Bulk

How To Buy Costume Jewelry in Bulk<br /><br />Costume jewelry became a popular alternative to jewelry made of precious metals and stones in the 1930s, shortly before the onset of the Great Depression. It came to being at a time when a lot of people cant afford to eat three square meals a day, much less buy jewelry made of gold, silver, diamond and other expensive materials. Now, costume jewelry has become an essential part of any girls wardrobe and its never been as easy to buy them in bulk. Heres how you can buy costume jewelry in volume.<br /><br />Look out for sales. Costume jewelry can be bought in fashion boutiques, superstores, and chain stores like Forever 21, H Checkout and Target. These shops hold several sales during the year and you can bet that you can buy fashion jewelry at very, very low prices during these times. The best thing about buying fashion jewelry during a sale is that you can also buy matching outfits at the same time.<br /><br />Visit local thrift stores. Also called charity stores or second hand shops, thrift stores sell items that are donated by the members of the public or that come from an estate. This is the reason why they sell items at very nominal places. With such low prices, there is no reason why you should not buy costume jewelry in bulk at thrift stores.<br /><br />Go to flea markets and bazaars. Aside from fresh produce, flea markets and bazaars are great places for finding inexpensive items such as fashion jewelry. You might even be surprised to find that one of the ladies in your neighborhood makes fashion jewelry as a hobby. This is a good way for you to buy unique, artistic pieces of costume jewelry in bulk and support your local community vendors at the same time.<br /><br />Look for wholesale distributors online. If you are having some event like Mardi Gras themed party, the best place for you to buy costume jewelry in a large volume is online. This will get you in touch with a lot of companies that manufacture and sell costume jewelry for really cheap prices. A quick look at Google shows that there are distributors for all kinds of costume jewelry such as vintage costume jewelry, collectible costume jewelry, and designer costume jewelry.<br /><br />Participate in online auctions. If you are not comfortable dealing with costume jewelry distributors directly, you can visit Amazon and eBay for sellers of costume jewelry. Check out the rating of the seller to make you feel secure in making a transaction online.<br /><br />To become fashionable, one need not spend hundreds or thousands of dollars buying high end clothing, jewelry, or accessories. Costume jewelry can make you as fashionable as the Joneses of this world without emptying your bank account. Buy them in bulk and you can be sure that there never will be a day when you have to go without an eye catching necklace, earring or bracelet.

How To Buy Costume Jewelry in Bulk

How To Buy Costume Jewelry in Bulk<br /><br />Costume jewelry became a popular alternative to jewelry made of precious metals and stones in the 1930s, shortly before the onset of the Great Depression. It came to being at a time when a lot of people cant afford to eat three square meals a day, much less buy jewelry made of gold, silver, diamond and other expensive materials. Now, costume jewelry has become an essential part of any girls wardrobe and its never been as easy to buy them in bulk. Heres how you can buy costume jewelry in volume.<br /><br />Look out for sales. Costume jewelry can be bought in fashion boutiques, superstores, and chain stores like Forever 21, H Checkout and Target. These shops hold several sales during the year and you can bet that you can buy fashion jewelry at very, very low prices during these times. The best thing about buying fashion jewelry during a sale is that you can also buy matching outfits at the same time.<br /><br />Visit local thrift stores. Also called charity stores or second hand shops, thrift stores sell items that are donated by the members of the public or that come from an estate. This is the reason why they sell items at very nominal places. With such low prices, there is no reason why you should not buy costume jewelry in bulk at thrift stores.<br /><br />Go to flea markets and bazaars. Aside from fresh produce, flea markets and bazaars are great places for finding inexpensive items such as fashion jewelry. You might even be surprised to find that one of the ladies in your neighborhood makes fashion jewelry as a hobby. This is a good way for you to buy unique, artistic pieces of costume jewelry in bulk and support your local community vendors at the same time.<br /><br />Look for wholesale distributors online. If you are having some event like Mardi Gras themed party, the best place for you to buy costume jewelry in a large volume is online. This will get you in touch with a lot of companies that manufacture and sell costume jewelry for really cheap prices. A quick look at Google shows that there are distributors for all kinds of costume jewelry such as vintage costume jewelry, collectible costume jewelry, and designer costume jewelry.<br /><br />Participate in online auctions. If you are not comfortable dealing with costume jewelry distributors directly, you can visit Amazon and eBay for sellers of costume jewelry. Check out the rating of the seller to make you feel secure in making a transaction online.<br /><br />To become fashionable, one need not spend hundreds or thousands of dollars buying high end clothing, jewelry, or accessories. Costume jewelry can make you as fashionable as the Joneses of this world without emptying your bank account. Buy them in bulk and you can be sure that there never will be a day when you have to go without an eye catching necklace, earring or bracelet.

Hollywood Helping Haiti Gift Basket Sweepstakes

Hollywood Helping Haiti Gift Basket Sweepstakes<br /><br />Description:At the Oscars, celebrities who signed t shirts to be auctioned off to aid Haiti received a $4,000 gift basked as thanks. Now, you could win one of those gift baskets for yourself in Radar Onlines Hollywood Helping Haiti Gift Basket Sweepstakes.<br /><br />Sweepstakes Prizes:Grand Prize: A Hollywood Helping Haiti gift basket, including Calinana Jewelry, a Becca bikini, Silver Wrinkle Serum and Cor, The Silver Eye Cream, a New Tivo Premiere, a Croton Watch, a gift certificate to Lucky Jets, a Biatta lingerie set, a Money Laundry shirt, a copy of the Final Fantasy XIII game for PS3 and for Xbox, Final Fantasy XIII silver pendant jewelry, Final Fantasy XIII faceplate, a Deuce Brand Watch, a one year membership to House of Blues, Nature Made Sleep, Fashion Forms, Baskin Robbins, Plastic Surgeon, and Elizabeth Grant Gift Certificates. ARV: $4,000<br /><br />More Contests and Sweepstakes to Enter10 Dream Sweepstakes to EnterTop Car SweepstakesComplete Sweepstakes List<br /><br />Win More PrizesImprove Your Chances of WinningEnter More Sweepstakes with RoboformCreate an Effective Sweepstakes Strategy<br /><br />Entering ContestsCreative Contests to Enter TodayHow to Find Answers to Trivia ContestsHow to Take Prize Winning PhotographsFinal Fantasy XIII Review PS3Final Fantasy XIII Review X360Final Fantasy XIII Hints, Tips, and Tricks Xbox 360Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII Review X360Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII PS3 Review

Hollywood Helping Haiti Gift Basket Sweepstakes

Hollywood Helping Haiti Gift Basket Sweepstakes<br /><br />Description:At the Oscars, celebrities who signed t shirts to be auctioned off to aid Haiti received a $4,000 gift basked as thanks. Now, you could win one of those gift baskets for yourself in Radar Onlines Hollywood Helping Haiti Gift Basket Sweepstakes.<br /><br />Sweepstakes Prizes:Grand Prize: A Hollywood Helping Haiti gift basket, including Calinana Jewelry, a Becca bikini, Silver Wrinkle Serum and Cor, The Silver Eye Cream, a New Tivo Premiere, a Croton Watch, a gift certificate to Lucky Jets, a Biatta lingerie set, a Money Laundry shirt, a copy of the Final Fantasy XIII game for PS3 and for Xbox, Final Fantasy XIII silver pendant jewelry, Final Fantasy XIII faceplate, a Deuce Brand Watch, a one year membership to House of Blues, Nature Made Sleep, Fashion Forms, Baskin Robbins, Plastic Surgeon, and Elizabeth Grant Gift Certificates. ARV: $4,000<br /><br />More Contests and Sweepstakes to Enter10 Dream Sweepstakes to EnterTop Car SweepstakesComplete Sweepstakes List<br /><br />Win More PrizesImprove Your Chances of WinningEnter More Sweepstakes with RoboformCreate an Effective Sweepstakes Strategy<br /><br />Entering ContestsCreative Contests to Enter TodayHow to Find Answers to Trivia ContestsHow to Take Prize Winning PhotographsFinal Fantasy XIII Review PS3Final Fantasy XIII Review X360Final Fantasy XIII Hints, Tips, and Tricks Xbox 360Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII Review X360Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII PS3 Review

Growing strawberries in containers

Growing strawberries in containers<br /><br />Growing strawberries in containers or pots is easy to do, even if you dont have much outdoor space. But you say I dont have room for a garden! Not to worry, this article will show you how to grow strawberries in containers on your deck or any sunny outdoor area. In fact, pots, cans and, other containers are a great way to grow strawberries. Just feed and water your container growing strawberry plants regularly and enjoy strawberries throughout the summer. Clay pots designed for growing strawberries work best with special pockets on the sides for multiple strawberry plants. What youll need to grow strawberries in containers or pots. Strawberry crowns preferably plants certified as disease free.<br /><br />Choosing containers: proper drainage is very important for strawberry plants to grow and produce plenty of fruit. You can either plant them in hanging containers or raise the containers to allow drainage. Any type of clay planter pots that have drainage holes in the bottom and saucers to keep the soil from washing away, will work just fine pick a size that fits the area you intend to grow your strawberries and how many containers you have. Most nurseries and garden centers also sell special strawberry pots which have pockets up and down both sides. If you use the strawberry pots, be sure to fill each one to the lowest pocket with soil. If you use cans, fill them so you have about one and a half inches of the rim still showing. Selecting Strawberry Plants The two main types of strawberry plants are ever bearing and seasonal. Either type will work fine for container growing, but if you live in a colder climate then the ever bearing type may not survive the winter months, so seasonal producing strawberry plants may be your best bet.<br /><br />Preparing soil for strawberry plants: Strawberries like soil that is loamy, with lots organic material they can consume. Planting your strawberries after filling each container with the amended soil, also plant your strawberry plants so the roots are covered. Unless you have very large containers, place only one plant in each container. Strawberry plants should be about two feet apart from each other so that they get plenty of sunlight. Watering container grown strawberries, dont over water your container strawberries they should be watered enough to keep the soil damp but not so much that you have any standing water. Again its important to be sure your containers are able to drain adequately without the soil being washed away. Fertilizing container grown strawberries throughout the summer months. Fertilize your plants every other week with a high phosphorus liquid fertilizer to encourage them to flower. Strawberries are one of summers special pleasures, and making your own strawberry patch is easy and fun to do Strawberries are a summer favorite, and growing them is easier than you think. Selecting the right strawberry variety will save you from having either too many or too few strawberries when you need them most. Even novice gardeners can expect great triumph in the container growing of strawberries. Container strawberries can be grown anywhere in a container, even inside an apartment with no balcony, patio, or yard.<br /><br />Choosing the best variety of strawberry plants is vital to accomplishment in container growing strawberries. Aromas Ever bearer; fast fruiting strawberries, resistant to powdery mildew and spider mites, large strawberry fruit, has some pollination issues. Since you are container growing the strawberries, follow one simple rule only plant one strawberry plant per container. And remember strawberries can be grown in nearly any type of container hanging baskets, pots, tin cans, pocketed strawberry pots, and in tiers, to name a few. I hope these tips help you grow sweet and tasty container strawberries.

Growing strawberries in containers

Growing strawberries in containers<br /><br />Growing strawberries in containers or pots is easy to do, even if you dont have much outdoor space. But you say I dont have room for a garden! Not to worry, this article will show you how to grow strawberries in containers on your deck or any sunny outdoor area. In fact, pots, cans and, other containers are a great way to grow strawberries. Just feed and water your container growing strawberry plants regularly and enjoy strawberries throughout the summer. Clay pots designed for growing strawberries work best with special pockets on the sides for multiple strawberry plants. What youll need to grow strawberries in containers or pots. Strawberry crowns preferably plants certified as disease free.<br /><br />Choosing containers: proper drainage is very important for strawberry plants to grow and produce plenty of fruit. You can either plant them in hanging containers or raise the containers to allow drainage. Any type of clay planter pots that have drainage holes in the bottom and saucers to keep the soil from washing away, will work just fine pick a size that fits the area you intend to grow your strawberries and how many containers you have. Most nurseries and garden centers also sell special strawberry pots which have pockets up and down both sides. If you use the strawberry pots, be sure to fill each one to the lowest pocket with soil. If you use cans, fill them so you have about one and a half inches of the rim still showing. Selecting Strawberry Plants The two main types of strawberry plants are ever bearing and seasonal. Either type will work fine for container growing, but if you live in a colder climate then the ever bearing type may not survive the winter months, so seasonal producing strawberry plants may be your best bet.<br /><br />Preparing soil for strawberry plants: Strawberries like soil that is loamy, with lots organic material they can consume. Planting your strawberries after filling each container with the amended soil, also plant your strawberry plants so the roots are covered. Unless you have very large containers, place only one plant in each container. Strawberry plants should be about two feet apart from each other so that they get plenty of sunlight. Watering container grown strawberries, dont over water your container strawberries they should be watered enough to keep the soil damp but not so much that you have any standing water. Again its important to be sure your containers are able to drain adequately without the soil being washed away. Fertilizing container grown strawberries throughout the summer months. Fertilize your plants every other week with a high phosphorus liquid fertilizer to encourage them to flower. Strawberries are one of summers special pleasures, and making your own strawberry patch is easy and fun to do Strawberries are a summer favorite, and growing them is easier than you think. Selecting the right strawberry variety will save you from having either too many or too few strawberries when you need them most. Even novice gardeners can expect great triumph in the container growing of strawberries. Container strawberries can be grown anywhere in a container, even inside an apartment with no balcony, patio, or yard.<br /><br />Choosing the best variety of strawberry plants is vital to accomplishment in container growing strawberries. Aromas Ever bearer; fast fruiting strawberries, resistant to powdery mildew and spider mites, large strawberry fruit, has some pollination issues. Since you are container growing the strawberries, follow one simple rule only plant one strawberry plant per container. And remember strawberries can be grown in nearly any type of container hanging baskets, pots, tin cans, pocketed strawberry pots, and in tiers, to name a few. I hope these tips help you grow sweet and tasty container strawberries.

Gemstone Jewelry Collectibles

Gemstone Jewelry Collectibles<br /><br />If you love jewelry then you might want to start collecting your gemstone jewelry as soon as possible. Gemstones are precious stones that are put into jewelry pieces. These can be very valuable pieces so you will want to collect them as soon as possible. You can start collecting diamonds, rubies, amethyst or any other type of gemstone you like. There are so many gorgeous gemstones to pick from when you are making your collection. If you like onyx or other stones you will be able to collect pieces within a certain gemstone. It is all up to you so begin collecting gemstone jewelry today and soon you will have plenty of pieces that you can admire.<br /><br />When you are looking for some really great gemstone jewelry to add to your collection you can check out your nearest jewelry stores as they have really good selections. You can also do a lot of shopping over the internet. This is a convenient way for you to shop. You will be able to browse many different stores jewelry selection and take your time while you are doing it. There is no rush and you can find the pieces that you really want. Best of all you can shop whenever you want to, even if it is in the middle of the night. This is a really great way to shop for your gemstone jewelry collectibles. You will find many wonderful pieces and you will also find some great prices.<br /><br />When you start collecting gemstone pieces it is a good idea to learn about the gemstones. You can do this by searching online and studying the different aspects of each of the gemstones. Each gemstone has unique characteristics. You will also want to know more about how to tell a good piece of gemstone jewelry from another one. This will help you because before you go looking for the stones you will have knowledge of what you should be looking for.<br /><br />Make sure that you know how to care for your gemstone jewelry collectibles. It is always recommended that cleaning be done by a professional at least four times a year. So be sure that you do that. Always store you gemstone jewelry collectibles in a safe and dry area. You dont want them to get scratched or damaged. Your gemstone jewelry collectibles will stay nice for you for a long time.<br /><br />When you start collecting the gemstone jewelry collectibles you can add to it as often as you can. Tell others that you are collecting them so you can receive them for gifts on holidays and birthdays. You never know when they might give you some to add to your collection. Make sure you also go to different auctions and yard sales, because you never know when you might come upon a really nice piece that you can get for a fraction of its cost. Soon you will have plenty of pieces in your collection and it will become very valuable for you.<br /><br />Published by Teresa Tracey StanishaWaterford Crystal Collectibles: Fine Irish CrystalThere is no finer crystal in the world than Waterford.

Gemstone Jewelry Collectibles

Gemstone Jewelry Collectibles<br /><br />If you love jewelry then you might want to start collecting your gemstone jewelry as soon as possible. Gemstones are precious stones that are put into jewelry pieces. These can be very valuable pieces so you will want to collect them as soon as possible. You can start collecting diamonds, rubies, amethyst or any other type of gemstone you like. There are so many gorgeous gemstones to pick from when you are making your collection. If you like onyx or other stones you will be able to collect pieces within a certain gemstone. It is all up to you so begin collecting gemstone jewelry today and soon you will have plenty of pieces that you can admire.<br /><br />When you are looking for some really great gemstone jewelry to add to your collection you can check out your nearest jewelry stores as they have really good selections. You can also do a lot of shopping over the internet. This is a convenient way for you to shop. You will be able to browse many different stores jewelry selection and take your time while you are doing it. There is no rush and you can find the pieces that you really want. Best of all you can shop whenever you want to, even if it is in the middle of the night. This is a really great way to shop for your gemstone jewelry collectibles. You will find many wonderful pieces and you will also find some great prices.<br /><br />When you start collecting gemstone pieces it is a good idea to learn about the gemstones. You can do this by searching online and studying the different aspects of each of the gemstones. Each gemstone has unique characteristics. You will also want to know more about how to tell a good piece of gemstone jewelry from another one. This will help you because before you go looking for the stones you will have knowledge of what you should be looking for.<br /><br />Make sure that you know how to care for your gemstone jewelry collectibles. It is always recommended that cleaning be done by a professional at least four times a year. So be sure that you do that. Always store you gemstone jewelry collectibles in a safe and dry area. You dont want them to get scratched or damaged. Your gemstone jewelry collectibles will stay nice for you for a long time.<br /><br />When you start collecting the gemstone jewelry collectibles you can add to it as often as you can. Tell others that you are collecting them so you can receive them for gifts on holidays and birthdays. You never know when they might give you some to add to your collection. Make sure you also go to different auctions and yard sales, because you never know when you might come upon a really nice piece that you can get for a fraction of its cost. Soon you will have plenty of pieces in your collection and it will become very valuable for you.<br /><br />Published by Teresa Tracey StanishaWaterford Crystal Collectibles: Fine Irish CrystalThere is no finer crystal in the world than Waterford.

Five Great Tips for Buying Hand

Five Great Tips for Buying Hand<br /><br />Whether you are buying hand made jewelry for yourself, another person, or as a gift, you need to know a few things about hand made jewelry and what you should look for. Take these five tips into consideration when purchasing hand made jewelry for the first time. If you have purchased hand made jewelry before and you dont feel you received good crafted jewelry, take a look at these tips as well.<br /><br />Tip 1 Find a Reliable Source<br /><br />The first tip is to find a reliable source. This might go without saying, but do not confuse commercially fabricated jewelry with hand made jewelry. The latter is created by crafters that simply take great satisfaction in their own work, the former is mass produced, typically abroad. There are quite a few places you can buy hand made jewelry; just do your research before purchasing.<br /><br />Tip 2 Know Your Options<br /><br />The second tip is to know your options when it comes to buying hand made jewelry. Take complete benefits of customization. The jewelry can typically be customized in a variety of methods, in the spans of bracelets and necklaces to the varieties of stones used in rings and pendants, when jewelry is handmade.<br /><br />Tip 3 Make Sure You Have the Right Measurements and Styles<br /><br />Measure attentively. It is important you ensure the handcrafted jewelry you buy matches, as customized items of jewelry typically arent returnable. It just takes a short while to get an excellent measurement, and doing so will ensure the piece of jewelry you buy will be precisely what you need and want. To discover the dimensions, place the cord against a tape measure. You should also know the styles of jewelry you are looking to purchase.<br /><br />Tip 4 If Buying for a Friend, Know Their Style<br /><br />If you are buying the handcrafted jewelry for a friend as a surprise, you will need to know their style and measurements as well. You may have to be a bit sneaky when retrieving their measurements, but you need as much information as possible to provide the designer. You should also know the style the person likes when it comes to buying handcrafted jewelry for someone else.<br /><br />Tip 5 Educate Yourself on the Jewelry<br /><br />Ensure that you understand what youre purchasing, simply because something is called silver does not mean it is actually silver, it could simply mean silver colored! Reputable vendors will be really clear in what youre purchasing. You are not only purchasing a piece youll value, when you purchase hand designed jewelry, but jewelry that will become an heirloom for future generations. As this can cause allergies in many individuals dont purchase jewelry that you imagine may include nickel.<br /><br />Have fun with your hand made jewelry shopping!<br /><br />Published by Jasmine Starr<br /><br />One breath at a time. Like so many others, I struggle to make it day to day. I live with a severe case of Scoliosis and two messed up sciatic nerves. Life is very difficult!! View profile<br /><br />Tips for Buying and Selling Handmade Jewelry on EtsyEtsy is an enormous global marketplace, where jewelry is its biggest category. Without the proper preparation, people tend to go astray.

Five Great Tips for Buying Hand

Five Great Tips for Buying Hand<br /><br />Whether you are buying hand made jewelry for yourself, another person, or as a gift, you need to know a few things about hand made jewelry and what you should look for. Take these five tips into consideration when purchasing hand made jewelry for the first time. If you have purchased hand made jewelry before and you dont feel you received good crafted jewelry, take a look at these tips as well.<br /><br />Tip 1 Find a Reliable Source<br /><br />The first tip is to find a reliable source. This might go without saying, but do not confuse commercially fabricated jewelry with hand made jewelry. The latter is created by crafters that simply take great satisfaction in their own work, the former is mass produced, typically abroad. There are quite a few places you can buy hand made jewelry; just do your research before purchasing.<br /><br />Tip 2 Know Your Options<br /><br />The second tip is to know your options when it comes to buying hand made jewelry. Take complete benefits of customization. The jewelry can typically be customized in a variety of methods, in the spans of bracelets and necklaces to the varieties of stones used in rings and pendants, when jewelry is handmade.<br /><br />Tip 3 Make Sure You Have the Right Measurements and Styles<br /><br />Measure attentively. It is important you ensure the handcrafted jewelry you buy matches, as customized items of jewelry typically arent returnable. It just takes a short while to get an excellent measurement, and doing so will ensure the piece of jewelry you buy will be precisely what you need and want. To discover the dimensions, place the cord against a tape measure. You should also know the styles of jewelry you are looking to purchase.<br /><br />Tip 4 If Buying for a Friend, Know Their Style<br /><br />If you are buying the handcrafted jewelry for a friend as a surprise, you will need to know their style and measurements as well. You may have to be a bit sneaky when retrieving their measurements, but you need as much information as possible to provide the designer. You should also know the style the person likes when it comes to buying handcrafted jewelry for someone else.<br /><br />Tip 5 Educate Yourself on the Jewelry<br /><br />Ensure that you understand what youre purchasing, simply because something is called silver does not mean it is actually silver, it could simply mean silver colored! Reputable vendors will be really clear in what youre purchasing. You are not only purchasing a piece youll value, when you purchase hand designed jewelry, but jewelry that will become an heirloom for future generations. As this can cause allergies in many individuals dont purchase jewelry that you imagine may include nickel.<br /><br />Have fun with your hand made jewelry shopping!<br /><br />Published by Jasmine Starr<br /><br />One breath at a time. Like so many others, I struggle to make it day to day. I live with a severe case of Scoliosis and two messed up sciatic nerves. Life is very difficult!! View profile<br /><br />Tips for Buying and Selling Handmade Jewelry on EtsyEtsy is an enormous global marketplace, where jewelry is its biggest category. Without the proper preparation, people tend to go astray.

Five Great Tips for Buying Hand

Five Great Tips for Buying Hand<br /><br />Whether you are buying hand made jewelry for yourself, another person, or as a gift, you need to know a few things about hand made jewelry and what you should look for. Take these five tips into consideration when purchasing hand made jewelry for the first time. If you have purchased hand made jewelry before and you dont feel you received good crafted jewelry, take a look at these tips as well.<br /><br />Tip 1 Find a Reliable Source<br /><br />The first tip is to find a reliable source. This might go without saying, but do not confuse commercially fabricated jewelry with hand made jewelry. The latter is created by crafters that simply take great satisfaction in their own work, the former is mass produced, typically abroad. There are quite a few places you can buy hand made jewelry; just do your research before purchasing.<br /><br />Tip 2 Know Your Options<br /><br />The second tip is to know your options when it comes to buying hand made jewelry. Take complete benefits of customization. The jewelry can typically be customized in a variety of methods, in the spans of bracelets and necklaces to the varieties of stones used in rings and pendants, when jewelry is handmade.<br /><br />Tip 3 Make Sure You Have the Right Measurements and Styles<br /><br />Measure attentively. It is important you ensure the handcrafted jewelry you buy matches, as customized items of jewelry typically arent returnable. It just takes a short while to get an excellent measurement, and doing so will ensure the piece of jewelry you buy will be precisely what you need and want. To discover the dimensions, place the cord against a tape measure. You should also know the styles of jewelry you are looking to purchase.<br /><br />Tip 4 If Buying for a Friend, Know Their Style<br /><br />If you are buying the handcrafted jewelry for a friend as a surprise, you will need to know their style and measurements as well. You may have to be a bit sneaky when retrieving their measurements, but you need as much information as possible to provide the designer. You should also know the style the person likes when it comes to buying handcrafted jewelry for someone else.<br /><br />Tip 5 Educate Yourself on the Jewelry<br /><br />Ensure that you understand what youre purchasing, simply because something is called silver does not mean it is actually silver, it could simply mean silver colored! Reputable vendors will be really clear in what youre purchasing. You are not only purchasing a piece youll value, when you purchase hand designed jewelry, but jewelry that will become an heirloom for future generations. As this can cause allergies in many individuals dont purchase jewelry that you imagine may include nickel.<br /><br />Have fun with your hand made jewelry shopping!<br /><br />Published by Jasmine Starr<br /><br />One breath at a time. Like so many others, I struggle to make it day to day. I live with a severe case of Scoliosis and two messed up sciatic nerves. Life is very difficult!! View profile<br /><br />Tips for Buying and Selling Handmade Jewelry on EtsyEtsy is an enormous global marketplace, where jewelry is its biggest category. Without the proper preparation, people tend to go astray.

Facebook Jewelry and Accessories

Facebook Jewelry and Accessories<br /><br />Just about everyone knows that Scrabble tiles can be turned into things that a person might like, such as earrings, key rings, and more. Its true, especially if you have a game thats already missing some of its parts. But even if you dont have a Scrabble game, you can order tiles online; you wont have to buy the entire game. If youre a big Facebook fan who isnt youll love turning Scrabble tiles into Facebook jewelry and personal accessories.<br /><br />Facebook, an online, social media site, is a favorite destination for millions of people. There, others can find friends, play games, post announcements, put up photos, and so much more. If Facebook is a place that you love why not make some jewelry and personal accessories? You can craft anything from a key ring, to a desk plaque, when you use Scrabble tiles.<br /><br />Make a desk plaque by simply gluing letters to one of the game trays. Spell out Facebook across the tray. Although the rules of the game allow a player only 7 letters on a tray, it will actually hold 9. Set the plaque on your desk and, and if you get too busy, it will remind you to check in with friends and family.<br /><br />Make Facebook earrings by using the F and the B tiles. Drill a tiny hole at the top of each letter right in the middle and slide in a jump ring. Before closing the ring, slide it through a wire earring hardware piece, and clamp it shut. Make sure to wear the F in the right ear, and the B in the left ear, or it will read backwards to others who see the earrings.<br /><br />A key ring that spells out Facebook will be way too long but one that just says FB is perfect. Slide a piece of twine through a key ring, and bring the ends together. Glue the twine to the back of the F and the B. Glue a blank tile on the back of each of those tiles, to trap the twine between the letters and the blanks, and the key ring is finished.<br /><br />Glue letters to spell Facebook across a scrapbook and use it to hold pictures that youve printed out from the site. Or, glue the letters to a small box or can, and you can make a pencil holder. Other Facebook things that you can make with the tiles include a personalized drink cozy, a necklace, or even a desk coaster. You find a large selection of clothing, accessories, and gift items from designers you can depend.5 Perfect Mothers Day Gadgets and AccessoriesWith the technological revolution in full swing, its only natural to want to get Mom some of the greatest gadgets. But they can be hard to find.

Endlessly Knotted No Clasp Crystal Necklace Tutorial

Endlessly Knotted No Clasp Crystal Necklace Tutorial<br /><br />Knotting between beads is a method that creates a more professional finish to strung jewelry designs. While it can tax your patience, especially if you dont knot very often, it is well worth the effort because of the wonderful drape and flow your beads will have when you are finished.<br /><br />In this project, I take it a step further and use knots to also create an endless beaded design with no clasp. You just simply pull the finished crystal necklace over your head, and you are out the door, ready to sparkle and shine. The finished necklace measures 26 inches, and you can adjust the length by adding or removing beads. Just remember that if you want it shorter, youll need to make sure if fits over your head before finishing the final knotting process. At 26 inches, I find that it easily fits over my head and falls to about the middle of my chest, so the length works well for my frame and for a few articles of clothing I plan to wear with it. Consider this when you are determining the length youd like your finished necklace to be.

Endlessly Knotted No Clasp Crystal Necklace Tutorial

Endlessly Knotted No Clasp Crystal Necklace Tutorial<br /><br />Knotting between beads is a method that creates a more professional finish to strung jewelry designs. While it can tax your patience, especially if you dont knot very often, it is well worth the effort because of the wonderful drape and flow your beads will have when you are finished.<br /><br />In this project, I take it a step further and use knots to also create an endless beaded design with no clasp. You just simply pull the finished crystal necklace over your head, and you are out the door, ready to sparkle and shine. The finished necklace measures 26 inches, and you can adjust the length by adding or removing beads. Just remember that if you want it shorter, youll need to make sure if fits over your head before finishing the final knotting process. At 26 inches, I find that it easily fits over my head and falls to about the middle of my chest, so the length works well for my frame and for a few articles of clothing I plan to wear with it. Consider this when you are determining the length youd like your finished necklace to be.

Different Ways to Fire Metal Clay

Different Ways to Fire Metal Clay<br /><br />When purchasing metal clay of either brand, youll find it comes with temperature and firing instructions. Depending on the type of metal clay you have, from original silver metal clay to copper metal clay, there are a number of options for firing it. This may include anything from a kiln to a simple hand held torch. Here are some general guidelines for some of the types of firing equipment you can use for firing metal clay.<br /><br />Kiln: All types of metal clay can be fired in a kiln. As long as the kiln can ramp up to the required temperature as high as 1650 degrees F 900 degrees C and can hold that temperature for anywhere from 10 minutes to 4 hours, it can be used for firing metal clay. Check the clay manufacturers time/temperature requirements to determine how high and how long it must be fired. The main issue with using a kiln, however, is that you want to make sure the temperature gauge is accurate and the length of time the temperature is held is also accurate. If metal clay pieces are under fired for example fired at lower temperatures than necessary or for a shorter period of time than required, then the piece will not be fully fired and will be subject to breakage because the organic material will not be full burnt out of the clay. Programmable kilns, such as model 703 117 and 118 from Rio Grande allow you to set the time and temperature for firing, and this means removing any guess work.<br /><br />Cone System: This system is made up of a fiber cone, mesh grid, and pyrometer connected to a butane fuel tank. One model manufactured by Metal Clay Supply is called the SpeedFire Cone System. Because butane burns well above the 1650 degrees F 900 degrees C mark you need for metal clay, it gets hot enough for firing. It is also less expensive than a kiln and a little more portable. However, there is no way to program this unit, and it is important to keep an eye on it during the process since the firing area of the grid is not enclosed inside anything.<br /><br />Butane Torch: You can pick up a hand held butane torch at just about any hardware store or jewelry supply company. A torch is about the least expensive piece of equipment youll find that will fire metal clay; however, you are limited to the low fire varieties of clay and the size of the pieces you plan to fire also have a limit of no more than 25 grams of clay. While the firing only takes about 5 or so minutes depending on the size of the piece, obviously since you have to hold the torch as you fire, it will require your complete attention.<br /><br />Hot Pot: Similar to the torch, you are limited to small amounts of low fire metal clay when using a hot pot, but you have the added advantage of not having to watch it for the entire firing process. I love my little hot pot and have used it for firing all types of small charms and pendants. It is a good way for beginners who may not be comfortable using a torch to get started with metal clay without having to spend that much money.<br /><br />Gas Stove: A regular gas burner can also be used for low fire varieties of metal clay that are 25 grams or less in size. Its best to cover the burner with a metal mesh to make sure your piece doesnt fall into it, and of course, for safety reasons you cant just stick something on your fired up burner and walk away. As with all types of firing equipment, proper ventilation is essential when firing.

Different Ways to Fire Metal Clay

Different Ways to Fire Metal Clay<br /><br />When purchasing metal clay of either brand, youll find it comes with temperature and firing instructions. Depending on the type of metal clay you have, from original silver metal clay to copper metal clay, there are a number of options for firing it. This may include anything from a kiln to a simple hand held torch. Here are some general guidelines for some of the types of firing equipment you can use for firing metal clay.<br /><br />Kiln: All types of metal clay can be fired in a kiln. As long as the kiln can ramp up to the required temperature as high as 1650 degrees F 900 degrees C and can hold that temperature for anywhere from 10 minutes to 4 hours, it can be used for firing metal clay. Check the clay manufacturers time/temperature requirements to determine how high and how long it must be fired. The main issue with using a kiln, however, is that you want to make sure the temperature gauge is accurate and the length of time the temperature is held is also accurate. If metal clay pieces are under fired for example fired at lower temperatures than necessary or for a shorter period of time than required, then the piece will not be fully fired and will be subject to breakage because the organic material will not be full burnt out of the clay. Programmable kilns, such as model 703 117 and 118 from Rio Grande allow you to set the time and temperature for firing, and this means removing any guess work.<br /><br />Cone System: This system is made up of a fiber cone, mesh grid, and pyrometer connected to a butane fuel tank. One model manufactured by Metal Clay Supply is called the SpeedFire Cone System. Because butane burns well above the 1650 degrees F 900 degrees C mark you need for metal clay, it gets hot enough for firing. It is also less expensive than a kiln and a little more portable. However, there is no way to program this unit, and it is important to keep an eye on it during the process since the firing area of the grid is not enclosed inside anything.<br /><br />Butane Torch: You can pick up a hand held butane torch at just about any hardware store or jewelry supply company. A torch is about the least expensive piece of equipment youll find that will fire metal clay; however, you are limited to the low fire varieties of clay and the size of the pieces you plan to fire also have a limit of no more than 25 grams of clay. While the firing only takes about 5 or so minutes depending on the size of the piece, obviously since you have to hold the torch as you fire, it will require your complete attention.<br /><br />Hot Pot: Similar to the torch, you are limited to small amounts of low fire metal clay when using a hot pot, but you have the added advantage of not having to watch it for the entire firing process. I love my little hot pot and have used it for firing all types of small charms and pendants. It is a good way for beginners who may not be comfortable using a torch to get started with metal clay without having to spend that much money.<br /><br />Gas Stove: A regular gas burner can also be used for low fire varieties of metal clay that are 25 grams or less in size. Its best to cover the burner with a metal mesh to make sure your piece doesnt fall into it, and of course, for safety reasons you cant just stick something on your fired up burner and walk away. As with all types of firing equipment, proper ventilation is essential when firing.

Cupid is an Economic Stimulus

Cupid is an Economic Stimulus<br /><br />Gone are the days that Valentines Day is labeled as a Hallmark Holiday. Valentines can be considered an economic stimulus that helps to boost sales in between Christmas and Easter. According to Reuters News Agency, for Valentines Day 2011, the average American couple will spend $189, which is three times more than what singles generally spend on an average date $67. Cupid has consumerism working for the economy, but not everyone buys into spending to show their love.<br /><br />Valentines Day SpendingAccording to estimates from the National Retail Foundation, the average person will spend $116.21 on Valentines Day merchandise this year, this figure is up almost 13% percent over last years $103.00. Overall, this will bring total Valentines Day spending to about $15.7 billion.<br /><br />Greeting cards will be the most popular gift option at over 50 percent, and jewelry is expected to be a popular gift to give with almost 20 percent of Valentines shoppers.<br /><br />The survey also found that overall spending is expected to be up this year. Consumers will fork over $3.5 billion on jewelry this Valentines Day, up from 2010s estimated $3 billion. Clothing $1.6 billion vs. $1.5 billion in 2010 and dining out $3.4 billion vs. $3.3 billion in 2010 are anticipated to be popular choices.<br /><br />No changes are expected on who will spend more; men will spend the most on Valentines Day gifts. The average man is anticipated to spend $158.71, more than double what the average woman will spend.<br /><br />According to Reuters, young professionals plan to spend $255 for Valentines with their significant other.<br /><br />Reuters quoted Mona Hamouly, public affairs manager with American Express, In January we asked the entire population if they felt optimistic or frugal or frightened as they were going into this new year, and what weve seen is young professionals definitely feel a bit more optimistic about the economy. Perhaps thats what drives them to be willing to spend a little bit more.<br /><br />Valentines Day Around the WorldProfits will soar in many economies worldwide. According to results at 6:30 pm on February 13, 2011, 49% of those who voted said that they have no special plans as it is just another day. Twenty six percent said they will have a quiet night at home with their special someone, 14% will dine out and take in a movie and only 11% who responded said they are exchanging Valentines Day gifts.

Columbia Diamond Ring Company Acquired by Aurafin and Kurgan Cheviot

Columbia Diamond Ring Company Acquired by Aurafin and Kurgan Cheviot<br /><br />wholesaler, and Kurgan Kurgan krg city 1989 pop. 356,000, capital of Kurgan region, W Siberian Russia, on the Tobol River. Cheviot, a major diamond and color jewelry<br /><br />manufacturer. A Letter of Intent has been signed on this pendingThe Columbia Diamond Ring acquisition comes shortly after theintention of consolidating the strengths of each of these bridal jewelry<br /><br />leaders forming a single bridal jewelry company best positioned to<br /><br />service the retail jewelry trade.<br /><br />The Columbia Diamond Ring acquisition brings together the two<br /><br />oldest bridal jewelry companies in America, who were rivals for over oneMr. Donald H. Fiddelman, President and CEO 1 Chief Executive Officer The highest individual in command of an organization. Typically the president of the company, the CEO reports to the Chairman of the Board. of Columbia indicated,<br /><br />by the Fiddelman family, will prosper under the young, dynamicand financial resources will greatly benefit the company and itscomplements Aurafins branding strategy and diversifies our product.

Columbia Diamond Ring Company Acquired by Aurafin and Kurgan Cheviot

Columbia Diamond Ring Company Acquired by Aurafin and Kurgan Cheviot<br /><br />wholesaler, and Kurgan Kurgan krg city 1989 pop. 356,000, capital of Kurgan region, W Siberian Russia, on the Tobol River. Cheviot, a major diamond and color jewelry<br /><br />manufacturer. A Letter of Intent has been signed on this pendingThe Columbia Diamond Ring acquisition comes shortly after theintention of consolidating the strengths of each of these bridal jewelry<br /><br />leaders forming a single bridal jewelry company best positioned to<br /><br />service the retail jewelry trade.<br /><br />The Columbia Diamond Ring acquisition brings together the two<br /><br />oldest bridal jewelry companies in America, who were rivals for over oneMr. Donald H. Fiddelman, President and CEO 1 Chief Executive Officer The highest individual in command of an organization. Typically the president of the company, the CEO reports to the Chairman of the Board. of Columbia indicated,<br /><br />by the Fiddelman family, will prosper under the young, dynamicand financial resources will greatly benefit the company and itscomplements Aurafins branding strategy and diversifies our product.

Charles Colvards CEO Discusses QResults

Charles Colvards CEO Discusses Q1 2014 Results<br /><br />Good afternoon, and welcome to the Charles Colvards First Quarter 2014 Earnings Conference Call. All participants will be in listen only mode. Operator Instructions Please note this event is being recorded.<br /><br />This webcast may contain forward looking statements as defined in Section 27A 1 1 of the Securities Act of 1933 as amended, including statements regarding among other things, the companys business strategy and growth strategy. Expressions which identify forward looking statements speak only as of the date the statement is made.<br /><br />These forward looking statements are based largely on our companys expectations, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified and are beyond our control.<br /><br />Future developments and actual results could differ materially from those set forth in contemplated by or underlined in the forward looking statements. In light of these risks and uncertainties there can be no assurance that the forward looking information will prove to be accurate.<br /><br />Id now like to turn the conference over to Randy McCullough, President and Chief Executive Officer. Please go ahead.<br /><br />Thanks, operator. Thank you for joining us everybody. We do not believe the financial results for the first quarter represent our future growth opportunity. We continue to believe there is a large market for our gem. We are a growing company. That means investment, time, energy, systems integrations, marketing, operations are all necessities to drive the business. As such, we are continuously taking necessary steps to increase our wholesale, retail and online footprint in order to be well positioned over the long term to surpass any previous sales records.<br /><br />Let me give you some color for this quarter. has seen in a long time. This created bit of temporary wholesale sluggishness for us.<br /><br />To help our current work through this, we collaborated closely to assist them with selling through their on hand inventories. This required our sales teams to spend more time with our existing customers, which stretched our bandwidth a bit. This triggered a temporary consequence and that we were unable to spend as much as wed have liked reaching our new customers thus adversely affecting growth of new accounts.<br /><br />Going forward, however, as we focus on our long term growth, we are very excited to say that we have taken several very important steps to position us to capture greater sales opportunities, reduce inventory levels and increase our cash position. Our objectives remain focused on steady building a solid foundation. Now, as always for the long term health of our business to win with consumers by providing a superior gem packed with world class service and to deliver shareholder value that we believe will bring Charles Colvard among the best performing companies in our industry.<br /><br />We remain confident that were doing what is right and necessary to achieve these objectives. We have continued to hire and integrate experienced industry connected sales professionals. These new sales hires have been solely charged with opening new business accounts. Some of these hires took a bit longer to make that would have been ideal. But we chose to be very selective in order to maintain our corporate culture as we grow. As such, we are willing to wait for the right people; those that we feel represented the best talent, had the most established potential client relationships, and shared the personality aspects that would align most closely with our plans for Charles Colvards growth.<br /><br />Already we are seeing the proofs of our investments in these new hires. These folks are hitting the ground running. As they continue to get more comfortable in their new roles and with our merchandize offerings we expect this to impact us positively in the future quarters and throughout the year. And interestingly it also delivered a valuable learning experience and compatible software systems. Many of our retailers have unique tracking, stocking and sales technology requirements. As such, we have upgraded a variety of capabilities of our technology backbone to help you make this technology aspect of our relationships with our clients more fluid in the future.<br /><br />Although these technological investments require time, energy and expense, we do believe this expenditure was a very worthwhile investment in our future, because it will service well with existing and new customers. We can proudly say that our integration has been very good having received an A rating every month thus far from Kohls since the start up in November. And this experience has and will benefit us with every other relationship going forward.<br /><br />We concentrated on capitalizing on our enhance ability now to provide state of the art fulfillment as a result of our Kohls start up by hiring a sales person that is exclusively focused on growing major e commerce opportunities. It took some time to complete this strategic hire that we brought in specifically to manage the growth of our online sales. But he has hit the ground running, and the wait was well worth it. We are very excited about the work ethic we are seeing and new doors opening, resulting in potential new relationships that were almost non existent before.<br /><br />Additionally, to better position us for greater market share growth he hired Sarah Williams as our VP of Marketing. Sarah is a forward thinking strategist with lots of experience in developing and nurturing global brands, including over the past couple of decades, for example, the Body Shop, LOral, Chanel and Calvin Klein. She intimately understands what appeals to women, who continue to be our target consumers. Already she is working to help us establish consistent messaging and branding while aligning our business objectives and identifying strength to optimize productivity, creativity and top performance.<br /><br />All of these changes and sales initiatives that Ive discussed are pushing forward with positive results. In addition, we will be participating next month in the JCK jewelry show in Las Vegas, the biggest jewelry show in the country. It is a wholesaler to retailer format. And we have more employments pre scheduled major retailers this year than ever before. This is very exciting. Well be introducing our new team and products to many key buyers and we are better positioned to sell and deliver. We are focusing on increasing market share by expanding our portfolio of exciting branded products with existing and new customers. On the bottom line, our productivity opportunity should help finance future top line growth and ensure our consumer value positions, our superior sustainable and ultimately deliver better earnings growth.<br /><br />Id now like to turn the call over to Kyle Macemore, our Chief Financial Officer to go through the numbers for the quarter. Kyle?<br /><br />Thank you, Randy. Good afternoon everyone, and thank you for joining us today. As announced in todays press release, net sales from the first quarter of 2014 decreased 7% to $6.1 million compared with 6.5 million in net sales during the same period of 2013. net sales for the first quarter were $5.7 million, an increase of 12% over the same period in 2013. International net sales for the first quarter 2014 were $359,000, a decrease of 74% compared to the first quarter of 2013. The decrease was primarily due to one distributor that placed a large order during the first quarter of 2013, but did not place any orders during the first quarter of 2014. We do expect future orders from this distributor throughout 2014.<br /><br />Also, our net sales declined 14% this quarter compared to the first quarter of 2013 to $5.2 million and comprised 85% of net sales. The decrease in the first quarter of 2014 was primarily due to the decline in the international sales. The companys direct to consumer businesses increased 89% in the first quarter to $914,000 or 15% of our net sales.<br /><br />Net sales of loose jewels decreased approximately 15% to $3.7 million in the first quarter and comprised 61% of sales this quarter compared with $4.3 million or 67% of sales in last years first quarter.<br /><br />Net sales of Forever Brilliant loose jewels in the first quarter of 2014 were approximately $2.9 million or 79% of our loose jewel sales compared with approximately $1.3 million or 30% of our loose jewel sales in last years first quarter.<br /><br />Finished jewelry net sales during the first quarter of 2014 were $2.4 million, an increase of 11% as compared to the same quarter in 2013.<br /><br />Operating expenses totaled $3.6 million in the first quarter of 2014 compared with $3.1 million for the same period of 2013. Operating expenses were down sequentially from the fourth quarter of 2013.<br /><br />The company recorded a net loss of $1.1 million or loss of $0.05 per share during the first quarter of 2014 relative to net income of $306,000 or $0.02 per diluted share during the first quarter of 2013.<br /><br />The company ended the quarter with $2.5 million of cash and cash equivalents from the balance sheet compared to $2.6 million of cash and cash equivalents at the end of the fourth quarter of 2013.<br /><br />Company ended the first quarter of 2014 with $43.7 million of inventory. Loose jewel inventory was $34 million, and finished jewelry inventory was $9.6 million. Inventory increase from the fourth quarter of 2013 due primarily to an increase in the raw materials of loose jewel inventory. As we discussed last quarter we expect inventory decrease throughout 2014 and be a positive source of cash flow.

Building an Inexpensive yet Fascinating Jewelry Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank

Building an Inexpensive yet Fascinating Jewelry Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank<br /><br />Jewelry is an important component of great dressing. It can either enhance an outfit or detract from it. Unfortunately, jewelry can also be very expensive to obtain, particularly on a limited budget. Here are a few ideas on enhancing your jewelry wardrobe: 1. Think modular. Go to your favorite online auction site and type in slide necklace or slider necklace. Another good search item is omega chain. These are necklaces which have connectors or ends that enable you to slip on the pendant, beads or charms of your choice. Pendants are another great item to buy at online auctions. You can also go to your favorite jewelry making website and purchase multi strand, ribbon or leather necklaces with the same slip on features as slide necklaces or omega chains. This is a great option if you dont have a ton of money to spend on bling.<br /><br />2. Did I mention online auctions? Oh, yeah above paragraph! Its amazing what you can find online! I know people who have bought necklaces worth hundreds of dollars for about ten or fifteen bucks! Of course, this is all about timing, but I think youre up to it!<br /><br />3. Take a really simple jewelry class and learn how to string beads. You can learn this easily from a book as well, if you dont have time to attend a class. This will literally save you a ton of money. For the price of some wire cutters and a wire crimper, some stringing wire, a few clasps and a strand or two of beads, you can string some great necklaces for a fraction of the cost. To give you a solid dollar figure, I saw an onyx necklace for $150 in a department store that I had duplicated on my own for about $15. You can purchase beads either online or at one of those bead and jewelry fairs that are becoming so popular. If you want a listing of bead shows and fairs, there are numerous beading and jewelry making magazines on the shelf at your local book stores.<br /><br />4. Further to making your own, revisit your favorite jewelry making supply website I mentioned in 1. Really spend some time on it and see what they have available. Many of these sites not only offer pre made necklaces for very little money, but many jewelry components that are just a step away from pre made, and require nothing more than a sets of pliers to put together available for about $15. Again, your radar will be more attuned to whats possible if you either take a simple beading class first or buy a book and teach yourself how to bead a simple necklace. An example of just one of the many great products that jewelry supply places sell: jewelry bails. These are the tiny metal pieces that hold pendants onto the chains or cords that wrap around your neck. You can buy bails in silver and gold plated or gold filled that you can glue onto the back of a pendant you have made yourself, either with papier mache, plastic, fimo, sculpey you name it. The possibilities are endless. Make sure to buy a suitable glue for jewelry, too there are a number of them available.<br /><br />5. My absolute favorite jewelry accessory is something the Chinese call a pearl shortener. I dare you to again return to your favorite online auction site, type in these words and see what you find. This magical metal ring can convert an extremely long necklace into a dual strand necklace in a matter of minutes. I bought mine in the San Francisco Chinatown, but you can buy one online for less than $5. I think thats what I paid for mine. Just take your long necklace, fasten it, fold it in half, and drape it around your neck . Then link the pearl shortener through both loops of the necklace, thus connecting them. Voila! A double stranded necklace!Published by Anne Baxter<br /><br />Art school grad, now a San Francisco native View profile<br /><br />Connecticut State Budget ProcessConnecticut has a biannual budget that looks at a two year block of time and is updated in odd numbered years. The states fiscal year: July 1 to June 30. The Gov is able to appoint most commissioners and many dept.

Building an Inexpensive yet Fascinating Jewelry Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank

Building an Inexpensive yet Fascinating Jewelry Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank<br /><br />Jewelry is an important component of great dressing. It can either enhance an outfit or detract from it. Unfortunately, jewelry can also be very expensive to obtain, particularly on a limited budget. Here are a few ideas on enhancing your jewelry wardrobe: 1. Think modular. Go to your favorite online auction site and type in slide necklace or slider necklace. Another good search item is omega chain. These are necklaces which have connectors or ends that enable you to slip on the pendant, beads or charms of your choice. Pendants are another great item to buy at online auctions. You can also go to your favorite jewelry making website and purchase multi strand, ribbon or leather necklaces with the same slip on features as slide necklaces or omega chains. This is a great option if you dont have a ton of money to spend on bling.<br /><br />2. Did I mention online auctions? Oh, yeah above paragraph! Its amazing what you can find online! I know people who have bought necklaces worth hundreds of dollars for about ten or fifteen bucks! Of course, this is all about timing, but I think youre up to it!<br /><br />3. Take a really simple jewelry class and learn how to string beads. You can learn this easily from a book as well, if you dont have time to attend a class. This will literally save you a ton of money. For the price of some wire cutters and a wire crimper, some stringing wire, a few clasps and a strand or two of beads, you can string some great necklaces for a fraction of the cost. To give you a solid dollar figure, I saw an onyx necklace for $150 in a department store that I had duplicated on my own for about $15. You can purchase beads either online or at one of those bead and jewelry fairs that are becoming so popular. If you want a listing of bead shows and fairs, there are numerous beading and jewelry making magazines on the shelf at your local book stores.<br /><br />4. Further to making your own, revisit your favorite jewelry making supply website I mentioned in 1. Really spend some time on it and see what they have available. Many of these sites not only offer pre made necklaces for very little money, but many jewelry components that are just a step away from pre made, and require nothing more than a sets of pliers to put together available for about $15. Again, your radar will be more attuned to whats possible if you either take a simple beading class first or buy a book and teach yourself how to bead a simple necklace. An example of just one of the many great products that jewelry supply places sell: jewelry bails. These are the tiny metal pieces that hold pendants onto the chains or cords that wrap around your neck. You can buy bails in silver and gold plated or gold filled that you can glue onto the back of a pendant you have made yourself, either with papier mache, plastic, fimo, sculpey you name it. The possibilities are endless. Make sure to buy a suitable glue for jewelry, too there are a number of them available.<br /><br />5. My absolute favorite jewelry accessory is something the Chinese call a pearl shortener. I dare you to again return to your favorite online auction site, type in these words and see what you find. This magical metal ring can convert an extremely long necklace into a dual strand necklace in a matter of minutes. I bought mine in the San Francisco Chinatown, but you can buy one online for less than $5. I think thats what I paid for mine. Just take your long necklace, fasten it, fold it in half, and drape it around your neck . Then link the pearl shortener through both loops of the necklace, thus connecting them. Voila! A double stranded necklace!Published by Anne Baxter<br /><br />Art school grad, now a San Francisco native View profile<br /><br />Connecticut State Budget ProcessConnecticut has a biannual budget that looks at a two year block of time and is updated in odd numbered years. The states fiscal year: July 1 to June 30. The Gov is able to appoint most commissioners and many dept.

Building an Inexpensive yet Fascinating Jewelry Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank

Building an Inexpensive yet Fascinating Jewelry Wardrobe Without Breaking the Bank<br /><br />Jewelry is an important component of great dressing. It can either enhance an outfit or detract from it. Unfortunately, jewelry can also be very expensive to obtain, particularly on a limited budget. Here are a few ideas on enhancing your jewelry wardrobe: 1. Think modular. Go to your favorite online auction site and type in slide necklace or slider necklace. Another good search item is omega chain. These are necklaces which have connectors or ends that enable you to slip on the pendant, beads or charms of your choice. Pendants are another great item to buy at online auctions. You can also go to your favorite jewelry making website and purchase multi strand, ribbon or leather necklaces with the same slip on features as slide necklaces or omega chains. This is a great option if you dont have a ton of money to spend on bling.<br /><br />2. Did I mention online auctions? Oh, yeah above paragraph! Its amazing what you can find online! I know people who have bought necklaces worth hundreds of dollars for about ten or fifteen bucks! Of course, this is all about timing, but I think youre up to it!<br /><br />3. Take a really simple jewelry class and learn how to string beads. You can learn this easily from a book as well, if you dont have time to attend a class. This will literally save you a ton of money. For the price of some wire cutters and a wire crimper, some stringing wire, a few clasps and a strand or two of beads, you can string some great necklaces for a fraction of the cost. To give you a solid dollar figure, I saw an onyx necklace for $150 in a department store that I had duplicated on my own for about $15. You can purchase beads either online or at one of those bead and jewelry fairs that are becoming so popular. If you want a listing of bead shows and fairs, there are numerous beading and jewelry making magazines on the shelf at your local book stores.<br /><br />4. Further to making your own, revisit your favorite jewelry making supply website I mentioned in 1. Really spend some time on it and see what they have available. Many of these sites not only offer pre made necklaces for very little money, but many jewelry components that are just a step away from pre made, and require nothing more than a sets of pliers to put together available for about $15. Again, your radar will be more attuned to whats possible if you either take a simple beading class first or buy a book and teach yourself how to bead a simple necklace. An example of just one of the many great products that jewelry supply places sell: jewelry bails. These are the tiny metal pieces that hold pendants onto the chains or cords that wrap around your neck. You can buy bails in silver and gold plated or gold filled that you can glue onto the back of a pendant you have made yourself, either with papier mache, plastic, fimo, sculpey you name it. The possibilities are endless. Make sure to buy a suitable glue for jewelry, too there are a number of them available.<br /><br />5. My absolute favorite jewelry accessory is something the Chinese call a pearl shortener. I dare you to again return to your favorite online auction site, type in these words and see what you find. This magical metal ring can convert an extremely long necklace into a dual strand necklace in a matter of minutes. I bought mine in the San Francisco Chinatown, but you can buy one online for less than $5. I think thats what I paid for mine. Just take your long necklace, fasten it, fold it in half, and drape it around your neck . Then link the pearl shortener through both loops of the necklace, thus connecting them. Voila! A double stranded necklace!Published by Anne Baxter<br /><br />Art school grad, now a San Francisco native View profile<br /><br />Connecticut State Budget ProcessConnecticut has a biannual budget that looks at a two year block of time and is updated in odd numbered years. The states fiscal year: July 1 to June 30. The Gov is able to appoint most commissioners and many dept.

Before You Buy a Rock Tumbler

Before You Buy a Rock Tumbler<br /><br />The toy stores carry a type of rotating tumbler, where the rocks fall over and over and over, polishing rocks in much the same manner as the ocean has for millions of years. I recommend buying a tumbler from a company that has been around a while, with an established record of quality and service. Eventually, you will need a replacement part; you want the company to still be there when that happens. Lortone offers several sizes of tumblers, some with double barrels. They cost a bit more, but have two characteristics that make them more desirable for certain users: they polish rocks much more quickly and they retain the essential shape of the rocks rather than producing only rounded rocks. They are a bit quieter, too. Raytech is an established manufacturer of vibrational tumblers and other lapidary equipment. Tumblers are sized according to the weight of the load they can continuously bear. The most common cause of rotor failure and belt breakage is improper or over loading of the barrel. Smaller barrels hold smaller rocks no big surprise, so larger barrels can hold both bigger rocks and more small rocks. Double barrels can be used to polish lots of rocks or to ensure a really good polish if you reserve one barrel for that purpose.<br /><br />How to Polish Jewelry with a Tumbler<br /><br />Okay, so youve selected your tumbler! First, keep the time it takes to tumble in your mind about a month for a rotating tumbler/ week or two for vibrating or agitating types. Get vaseline to seal the barrel against leaks! Buy extra grit unless you want to keep that as an excuse to go out and buy more stuff. If noise is a concern, consider getting a cooler or other sound insulator to house the tumbler.

As Sales Rise TIF

As Sales Rise TIF<br /><br />With the economy gradually reviving, Tiffany Company TIF, a high end jewelry designer, manufacturer and retailer, witnessed better than expected holiday sales results, as customers flocked to jewelry shops signaling improved demand for luxury items, thereby prompting management to lift its outlook.<br /><br />Tiffany hinted that it witnessed robust sales of higher end fine jewelry collections, diamond engagement rings and fashion gold jewelry during the holiday period of November and December 2010. However, the company did notify that it experienced limited sales growth in silver jewelry.<br /><br />New York based company, Tiffany, said that net sales for the two month period jumped 11% to $888.5 million, reflecting renewed demand for jewelry in the Americas, Asia Pacific, Japan and European regions. Excluding foreign currency translation, net sales and comparable store sales climbed 10% and 8%, respectively.<br /><br />By geographic segment, sales in the Americas rose 9% to $484.8 million. Excluding foreign currency translation, sales jumped 9% and comparable store sales climbed 7%, with Americas branch store sales rising 8% and New York flagship store sales increasing 3%. Internet and catalog sales in the Americas grew 8%.<br /><br />Tiffany sales in Japan ascended 11% to $142.5 million. On a constant exchange rate basis, total sales advanced 3% and comparable store sales grew 2%.<br /><br />Sales in the Asia Pacific region sky rocketed 23% to $138.9 million. Excluding foreign currency translation, sales and comparable store sales increased 18% and 15%, respectively.<br /><br />Tiffany registered a 13% increase in sales in Europe to $114.9 million. and most of continental Europe, whereas comparable store sales surged 15%.<br /><br />Other sales plunged 45% to $7.4 million, reflecting a fall in wholesale sales of rough diamonds to independent distributors.<br /><br />Better Sales Provide Impetus to Outlook<br /><br />Buoyed by stronger than expected sales results, management now expects Tiffany to attain record sales and earnings results for fiscal 2010. Witnessing a lift in worldwide demand for higher priced jewelry, Tiffany hinted at achieving $3.1 billion of net sales in fiscal 2010 compared with $3.03 billion previously anticipated. The company also said that it remains on track to post earnings in the range of $2.83 to $2.88 per share, up from $2.72 to $2.77 forecasted earlier.<br /><br />Following this a positive sentiment is palpable among the analysts, and we are witnessing a rise in the Zacks Consensus Estimates. The current Zacks Consensus Estimates for the fourth quarter inched up by 2 cents to $1.31 and for fiscal 2010 it went up by 9 cents to $2.87 in the last 7 days. All the stores were opened during the holiday period. As of December 2010, the company operated 232 stores 96 in the Americas, 56 in Japan, 51 in Asia Pacific and 29 in Europe.<br /><br />Our View on the Stock<br /><br />Tiffany is well positioned to support robust sales and earnings growth by leveraging capital investments made over the past several years in distribution, manufacturing and diamond sourcing processes. Moreover, with nearly half of the total sales generated internationally, we believe that the company is well diversified from a regional perspective as well.<br /><br />The jewelry market was hit hard by the recent global meltdown, which triggered a shift in focus to cheaper private label brands. But as the recession eased, demand for luxury items also improved.<br /><br />Despite stiff competition from Signet Jewelers Limited SIG and Zale Corporation ZLC, Tiffany still retains a significant position in the world jewelry market due to its distinctive brand appeal. The company now intends to expand its distribution network by adding stores in both new and existing markets.<br /><br />The company has also been consistently enhancing shareholders return by increasing dividends, and resumed its share repurchase program, which was suspended in the third quarter of 2008 when the economy had faltered.<br /><br />Given the strong fundamentals, we maintain our Outperform rating on the stock. Moreover, Tiffany holds the Zacks 1 Rank, which translates into a short term Buy recommendation, and correlates with our long term view.

Airplane Headphones

Airplane Headphones<br /><br />Airplane headphones should be a must on everyones packing list before a trip. The airline industry has been hurting for years, and their solution is more crowded flights: to you and me, this means noisier flights and longer delays. Slipping on your airplane headphones is like a Calgon bath: it takes you away to a more peaceful place.<br /><br />Headphones vary in price and technology. More advanced airplane headphones use active noise reducing techniques, while others rely on passive noise reduction. They both cut the clatter, but in different ways. You can still listen to your CDs and DVDs with either method.<br /><br />Lets start with the passive headphones. They take a passive approach to reducing sound: they try to block it before it gets anywhere near your ears. Some can reduce background noise by nearly 30 decibels, and with soft ear muffs, you can wear them a long time thats handy if you get bumped from an over booked flight.<br /><br />Active noise reducing headphones actually create sound waves that are the opposite of the background din. When listened together, the two waves cancel each other out: its like turning a mute button on the ambient noise. Many of these headphones will plug into the in flight jack on an airplane, or most other gadgets that play music during your travel.

A Checklist for Teens at Camp

A Checklist for Teens at Camp<br /><br />Overnight Camp Clothing List<br /><br />Though you might not think fashion much matters when hiking and practicing archery, your teen probably disagrees especially if shes headed to a co ed camp. When shes headed to overnight camp, help her pack outfits that are practical in addition to stylish. Shell likely need shorts and T shirts for each day, as well as a few extra outfits in case she gets sweaty or dirty. Pack more than enough underwear for her stay, as well as two bathing suits, a few pairs of pants and sweatshirts for chilly nights and a water resistant hooded jacket. Shell need pajamas too, and if her camp has any religious affiliation, she might be expected to bring one dressier outfit for services check the camps packing list to be sure. Make sure she packs at least one pair of worn in sneakers, plastic sandals for showering and socks for each day. Discourage a girl from packing jewelry other than basic items like stud earrings. Its too easy to lose something in the woods.<br /><br />Research laundry options at your teens camp before helping her pack. For a one week trip, she probably wont need to wash clothes; for a longer stay, she might need laundry detergent and a tutorial on washing clothes, too. She might be required to bring her own sheets and towels. Remind her to pack all the toiletries she uses daily to shower, along with toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, contact lens solution if necessary and, for a girl, feminine hygiene products. Send her to camp with a cell phone and camera, along with chargers, only if these devices are permitted by camp leaders. A flashlight and batteries are useful for an outdoor camp. If the camp has a canteen, shell appreciate having some spending money, and a small token of home, like a family photo, might help a teen combat homesickness. At a camp aimed for teens with specific interests, your child might need special equipment. For instance, for a soccer day camp, shell probably need cleats and shin guards; if its a sleepaway camp, shell need these supplies plus workout gear for each day in addition to a few sets of casual outfits. At a music camp, your teen might need to bring an instrument or even extra gear like an audio recorder. A religious camp might request that teens bring their own Bibles or other religious texts. For a week at wilderness camp, shell probably need to leave makeup at home and bring camping supplies instead. The camp should provide guidance to teen campers on what gear they will require.<br /><br />Health and Safety<br /><br />Ideally your camp bound teenager will be concerned with her own safety, but ultimately, this is an area that a parent needs to take over. She should take the same health precautions whether shes going to overnight or day camp. A teen must take sunscreen and insect repellent to camp and should be careful to reapply these substances every few hours. Shell need an adequate supply of any medication she takes regularly. A first aid kit stocked with antihistamines, pain relievers and aloe gel will come in handy too, but not all camps will allow her to bring non prescription medications, so check with the camp director first. She should know who to contact if she feels sick or hurt, how to get around the campus and what the camp rules are. Help her research these topics before she leaves home. She must be especially confident and knowledgeable about camp procedures if shes working as a counselor for younger campers. Your teen should be reminded of your own family rules of conduct and might benefit from a talk about bullying and making new friends. Before she leaves for an overnight camp, tuck stationery and stamps into her bag, even if you dont anticipate receiving any letters, and remind her to smile for any photos camp leaders want to take. According to the American Camp Association, the majority of camps post photos and updates online for parents to see. Knowing you can track her experience at camp might ease some of your own separation anxiety while your teens away.